Q: 10-5-98
I talked to you a few weeks ago about working with an M.D. Your advice on a 60/40 spit has worked out well as has my private practice. I want to thank you again for all the info you gave me in class last winter.
One more question: I have a friend who is ready to graduate from Massage school. What is reasonable compensation for me to let him use the office on days when I'm not there. He'll be working 2 days per week and Saturday afternoon giving massages. I'd rather not charge him rent, maybe I'll just take a fair percentage of his collections. Also, is there any legal procedures that I have to go through if he works there.
A:
If there is another professional working on your patients and something goes wrong .. you may be liable. Therefore ..I'd be sure your massage friend has malpractice insurance .. if he doesn't .. then you have three options. One .. have him rent space .. or pay you a % .. but he attracts his own patients .. even if they are yours .. and the liability is strickly his .. sort of. Option two .. you refer your patient¼s to him and he gives you 40% of the fee .. and you call your malpractice insurance company and see if a para- professional such as a masaage therapist is under your insurance if they work on your patient's only.
Option three .. don't worry about liability .. charge him 40% of his fee and have a great day.
Now .. how can he promote your practice? First he can have everyone of his clients have a chiropractic evaluation .. for free. Second .. he can express concern when he finds active trigger points and chronic instability and recommend chiropractic care. Third .. you can arrange to have his clients receive chiropractic care for a mild discount attracting patients this way. Four .. you can go on the road and do screenings. He can be next to you and give small massages for $1 a minute .. you'll be surprised how many people line up for it .. while you survey and screen them
Go for it
Dr. M